“Whatever the result, today's election marks another milestone in Afghanistan's progress toward democracy and a peaceful transfer of executive leadership,” Kirby said in a statement. “It also highlights the growing competence and capability of Afghan national security forces, who once again took the lead in making safe their fellow citizens' access to the ballot box.”

Kirby said Hagel commends Afghan security force leaders and their troops for these efforts and also extends his thanks to Marine Corps Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr. and the men and women of the International Security Assistance Force, “who have, through their service and bravery, made possible the gains we now see in Afghanistan.”

“He looks forward to working with the next Afghan administration as we bring our combat role to a conclusion, begin our new post-2014 assistance mission, and build a strong and enduring security relationship,” the press secretary said.